All-time leading rusher and fan favorite Deuce McAllister has rejoined the New Orleans Saints a day before the team will face the Arizona Cardinals in the playoffs.

The Saints confirmed the news Friday afternoon after WDSU learned of McAllister's signing from sources close to the team.

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McAllister was cut from the team in February 2009, shortly after undergoing knee surgery. He was practicing with the team on Friday morning.

"Im speechless," McAllister said in a statement. "I dont know that there are words to describe this feeling. I do know that we have some unfinished business that we started a few years ago and we want to finish the deal.

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It's not clear whether McAllister will play Saturday.

"Deuce McAllister has always embodied the spirit of the New Orleans Saints and the city of New Orleans," Saints head Coach Sean Payton said in a statement. "Were excited to have him back with the team and to have him lead us out on to the field tomorrow."

Sources tell WDSU that McAllister could be used in two ways in the team's playoff run. The team has been without a regular fullback since Heath Evans was injured, and McAllister could provide pass protection and blocking for the quarterback.

In addition, running back Pierre Thomas has three broken ribs, and though he is expected to play, McAllister would give the team added depth at that position.

Rodney Leisle, a defensive tackle who was signed two weeks ago, was put on injured reserve make room on the roster for McAllister.

The popular running back spent his entire professional career with the Saints, and after he was cut, he vowed to play in the NFL again. He was selected in the first round of the 2001 NFL draft after a record-setting college career at Ole Miss.